Taylor's Funeral

Taylor was laid to rest on Friday February 12th in the Thayne Wyoming cemetery. Tyler was able to go up to Wyoming on Wednesday to be with his family and help support in whatever way was needed. It was really good for him to go alone as he was able to really give all of his attention to his parents and brother. Me and the kids drove up Thursday evening and got there just in time for the viewing that night. I was really nervous to go and look and him and wouldn't go without Tyler by my side. He looked so good and peaceful. The kids were a little apprehensive at first but after a few minutes they were OK to go and see him. After Logan's first few glances at him he had had enough and wouldn't go anywhere near the casket, and didn't like us going near him either. Lauren on the other hand was not really affected by it. At one point she even went and picked some white flowers out of one of the bouquets and put them next to Taylor in the casket. She said she picked them because they matched him, as Taylor was dressed all in white.

The next morning we all got up and ready to head over to the church for another viewing and the funeral services. Some really great ladies in their ward had arranged for a nursery for all the little kids for the whole day while we were at the church. It was really nice to be able to enjoy the services by Tyler's side and not have to worry about keeping the kids quiet. We actually tried it for a little while but as usual they were the loudest kids in the room and I quickly took them back to the nursery. After the service we headed up to the cemetery for the dedication of the grave. Because it is in the middle of the winter and they have to dig down deep in the snow to even get to the ground, they don't actually dig the hole until after everyone leaves the graveside, apparently it is a pretty big muddy mess.

Here are a couple pictures by the graveside, Jeff by the casket, and Mami with all the grandkids.

One really neat thing about being at the funeral was that Lincoln, Tyler's oldest brother was able to make it as well. It has been since our wedding, almost 10 years ago that all the family was together. We got some really great pictures of all of them together. I just love the setting with the snow and mountains in the background. Looking at these pictures makes me happy!!

After the graveside service, we went back to the church for a luncheon that the wonderful ladies of the Thayne ward had prepared. Thank you wonderful ladies for all of your help with not only the funeral but also with all the support you have offered to Howard and Emily. They are lucky to live in such a great place with such a great support system. At the luncheon they had these tables set up with all these fun scrapbook boards made up with memories of Taylor. Also the fun cookie bouquet and all the beautiful flowers sent by everyone. They were beautiful!!

Octavio was also able to make it up to help show his support to Jeff and the rest of the family. Octavio has been a good friend to the whole family and is always fun to have around.

Big brother Lincoln with his little sisters.

Jeff and Reese

We were getting ready to leave and couldn't find Logan. We soon found him hiding in the corner eating two cupcakes. That's Logan for you!!



Immediately following the luncheon we jumped in the car to head home. We were leaving for California the next morning and had yet to start packing. I really wished we could have stayed longer. The kids were so tired. After only 10 minutes I noticed the car was awfully quiet and looked back to find them both conked out.

It was a nice quiet drive and gave Tyler and I a good chance to reflect on the day. We really are blessed to have the knowledge we have. We love Taylor very much and miss him dearly, but know we will be together again someday. I am trying to remember to take advantage of the time I have with my children each day. I love them so much more today than ever before!